Text by Adrienne Jordan, Architectural Digest,
The only thing that may be better than a hot shower after a long day is a hot shower outdoors. Though some people prefer the long luxurious soak in a bathtub, resorts around the world are designing showers that allow you to connect with nature. For example, at the &beyond Phinda Forest Lodge in South Africa, patrons can bathe in the midst of the spectacular Leopard Rock formation. Meanwhile, in the suite at the ME Cabo in Mexico, visitors are close enough to see the famous Arch of Cabo San Lucas from the comfort of their outdoor rain shower. Increasingly, resorts are designing outdoor showers around plant life that make it feel as though the water could be rain falling naturally from the skies. Below, AD surveys 10 examples of luxury in-room showers planted in outdoor environs.
Chablé Resort, Mexico
Designed by an all-Mexican team that included lead architect Jorge Borja of Grupo BV and interior design by Paulina Moran, the Chablé Resort had an objective to create a space that would put guests directly in touch with nature. Situated in the heart of the Mayan jungle in Mexico’s Yucatan peninsula, each suite at Chablé Resort features an indoor and outdoor shower that makes guests feel as though they are showering outside. chableresort.com/
&beyond Phinda Forest Lodge, South Africa
Dramatically set into a cliff face overlooking spectacular Leopard Rock, &Beyond Phinda Rock Lodge has three suites offering al fresco showers planted in leafy growth. The showers and suites are decorated in hues of oatmeal, gray, and stone. andbeyond.com/
Alila Ubud, Bali
Perched on the hillside of the rich green Ayung River valley in Bali's central foothills, the Alila Ubud features individual garden terraces and a back courtyard with an open-air shower. Once in the outdoor shower, visitors are surrounded by a sweeping Ayung valley view in a place that evokes a Balinese village. alilahotels.com/ubud
Robin Pope’s Pumulani Lodge, Malawi
Situated on the southern end of Lake Malawi, Pumulani is nestled in the verdant hills among the trees and rugged outcrops. Dutch architect G. Hooft Graafland made sure the villas and showers were built in harmony with the natural landscape. The outdoor shower is placed inside a static wooden boat for an ethereal aquatic experience. r obinpopesafaris.net/camps/pumulani
Bardessono Hotel & Spa, California
The LEED Platinum Certified retreat in the heart of Napa Valley features 62 guest rooms, singularly designed to transform into personal luxury spas. The Steam Spa Suites include outdoor living space with showers on a private patio constructed of salvaged wood. bardessono.com/
